Stories from Guatemala

Agents from the National Civil Police, the Criminal Investigation Division (DIC), and prosecutors from the Public Ministry conducted operations against illegal taxis and mototaxis. The operation was established on Boulevard La Pedrera in Zone 10. Local municipal police from Trácido and Chinautla also participated in the actions. Authorities aim to identify drivers of these unauthorized vehicles and locate illicit goods. The actions are part of the Centinera plan.

Deputies from the Semilla Movement presented a preventive amparo before the Constitutional Court to strengthen transparency and institutional safeguards within the Public Ministry. The measure seeks guarantees for effective and verifiable accountability and the protection of resources, archives, and documentation at the Ministry of Public Prosecution. Additionally, the group submitted a request to the Comptroller General of Accounts. The group is seeking a compliance audit or a special examination of the investigating entity. According to the movement, the filing aims to ensure effective, timely, and verifiable accountability during the current transition stage. The audit intends to verify five specific aspects of the institution. The Semilla movement has filed a request for an audit of the Ministerio Público in Guatemala.

Francisco Edgar Morales Guerra, the mayor of Dolores, Guatemala, has agreed to be extradited to the United States to face narcotics charges. The defense stated during a hearing that Morales Guerra is willing to be transferred to face justice where required. He is wanted by a U.S.

The Misco Commune announced that bus fares return to five quetzales starting today. Carla Marroquín provided details regarding the change in fare structure. The Misco Municipal Council authorized a reduction in bus fares effective today. Previously, fares were six quetzales for card users and seven quetzales for cash users. This move follows reports that gas station entrepreneurs have started receiving subsidies. The change is intended to prioritize local residents and maintain service levels. This measure specifically targets the express service to prioritize local residents. The subsidy aims to stabilize costs for commuters in the region. Both the ACO and the Ministry of Energy and Mines monitored the fuel prices. Spokesperson Maynore Spinoza stated the decision follows a council meeting convened by Mayor Neto-Bran.

The Guatemalan government announced the construction of a new maximum security prison in Isabel. The initiative is part of a broader security strategy involving increased police and military operations, weapon and drug seizures, and territory recovery. Officials stated the goal is to reduce homicides and increase public safety.

The incident involved cyclists and media personnel during the race. Preliminary information indicates the event occurred during the development of the fifth lap. The federation expressed deep regret over the situation.

A motorcycle struck runners during a competition, according to local reports. The incident has been described by local reports as an attempted homicide involving an irresponsible motorcyclist who failed to follow orders.

Guatemalan cyclist Eduardo Queo Vasquez and Colombian cyclist Diego Camargo completed the podium in a race held in Amatitlán. The first stage of the race covered 161 kilometers. The event featured a large group of national and international riders.

The Banco de Guatemala announced the reference exchange rate for April 29 is 7.63 quetzales per United States dollar. The bank stated this rate aims to preserve national value and generate economic stability and certainty. The announcement was made by Emisoras Unidas Guatemala.

Guatemala is set to return income tax withholdings that were retained from workers in January. The measure is expected to benefit both minimum wage earners and those above the minimum wage.